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Supernumerary nipples

Polymastia; Polythelia; Accessory nipples

Supernumerary nipples are the presence of extra nipples.

Considerations

Extra nipples are fairly common. They are generally unrelated to other conditions or syndromes. The extra nipples usually occur in a line below the normal nipples. They are usually not recognized as extra nipples because they tend to be small and not well-formed.

Causes

Common causes of supernumerary nipples are:

Variation of normal development

Some rare genetic syndromes may be associated with supernumerary nipples

Home Care

Most people do not need treatment. The extra nipples do NOT develop into breasts at puberty.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Talk to your health care provider if there are extra nipples on an infant. Tell the provider if there are other symptoms.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

The provider will do a physical exam. The provider may ask questions about the person's medical history. The number and location of extra nipples will be noted.

Supernumerary nipple - illustration

A supernumerary nipple is the aborted beginning of an additional nipple along the mid-clavicular line of the thorax. The hyperpigmented macule may have features more or less descriptive of a fully formed nipple, and occur a couple centimeters below the usually placed nipple. They are most often singular, and unilateral.

Supernumerary nipple

illustration

Supernumerary nipples - illustration

Supernummerary nipples, when present, follow a predictable line down the chest.

Supernumerary nipples

illustration

Supernumerary nipple - illustration

A supernumerary nipple is the aborted beginning of an additional nipple along the mid-clavicular line of the thorax. The hyperpigmented macule may have features more or less descriptive of a fully formed nipple, and occur a couple centimeters below the usually placed nipple. They are most often singular, and unilateral.

Supernumerary nipple

illustration

Supernumerary nipples - illustration

Supernummerary nipples, when present, follow a predictable line down the chest.